Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) occurs when the tiny hair cells (nerve endings) that detect sound in the ear are injured, diseased, do not work correctly, or have died. This type of hearing loss often cannot be reversed.

From explosions, fireworks, gunfire, rock concerts, and earphones

Home Care

You can often flush wax buildup out of the ear (gently) with ear syringes (available in drug stores) and warm water. Wax softeners (like Cerumenex) may be needed if the wax is hard and stuck in the ear.

Take care when removing foreign objects from the ear. Unless it is easy to get to, have your health care provider remove the object. Don't use sharp instruments to remove foreign objects.

See your health care provider for any other hearing loss.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if:

Hearing problems interfere with your lifestyle

Hearing problems do not go away or become worse

The hearing is worse in one ear than the other

You have sudden, severe hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

You have other symptoms, such as ear pain, along with hearing problems

Ear pain

An earacheis a sharp, dull, or burning pain in one or both ears. The pain may last a short time or be ongoing. Related conditions include:Otitis m...